Sport

Canvey eye return for former goalkeeper James Russell

JAMES Russell could return between the posts for Canvey next season – although Gulls boss Danny Heale said “nothing concrete” has been set.

A goalkeeper will be on Heale’s shopping list over the summer with Arsenal’s Josh Vickers, who has spent the season on work experience at Park Lane, set to be loaned out to a Football League side by his parent club for 2014/15.

Rumours have surfaced saying Russell, who became a Gulls legend after spending three-and-a-half years there, could possibly return having joined Boreham Wood in the Conference South in 2012.

However, Heale played down these suggestions saying nothing has been decided and he is no rush at the moment.

Heale said: “James is a good friend of mine having played together here for a couple of seasons.

“We have spoken about it as mates, but James is doing well at the moment at Boreham Wood so there is nothing to say he will come back here.

“But if he was available it would be great to have him back, but we’ll just have to see how things go.

“We’ve got the whole summer to think about it so there is plenty of time to look at options.”

The Gulls boss added the contribution made by 17-year-old Vickers has been brilliant and believes he is ready to step up another level.

“The goalkeeper is obviously a massive part of the team,” he said.

“If you have a good goalkeeper then you’re halfway there.

“Josh has done us a massive turn and there is talk of League One and League Two clubs asking about him and I am sure he’ll do well.”

On Monday, Canvey were able to complete the signing of central midfielder Jack Edwards.

The youngster joins the Gulls from Southend United on loan until the end of the season.